State Police Identify Magic Valley Trooper Hit by Car

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KLIX)-Idaho State Police have identified one of their own who was hit by a car while he was directing traffic on a call in Jerome Thursday morning. Sergeant Mike Wendler, a regular guest on Magic Valley This Morning with Bill Colley, was directing traffic at around 8:30 a.m. in Jerome for a car on fire when he was struck. He was flown to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center with critical injuries. According to a GoFundMe account set up for the officer, he was revived at the scene before being flown to the hospital. He underwent emergency surgery and was moved to the intensive care unit. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with the Jerome Police Department that is investigating the incident. Law enforcement from around the Magic Valley and Idaho have expressed their support for Sgt. Wendler. “Yesterday was a difficult day for the men and women who serve with the Idaho State Police. We are grateful for the numerous police, fire, and other agencies across our state who stepped in to help,” says Colonel Kedrick Wills. “We are profoundly humbled by the outpouring of support we received from the people of our great state. It has reinforced our belief that Idaho is truly a great place to live and serve. Until we know more, we ask you to keep Sergeant Wendler, his family, friends, and co-workers in your prayers as we continue through this challenging time.” A fellow trooper has set up the GoFundMe account to help support Sgt. Wendler and his family.

Sgt. Wendler visits periodically with morning host Bill Colley on Magic Valley This Morning about various issues regarding traffic, law enforcement, and other topics with a good sense of humor, “Mike defines ‘good cop!’ He’s fair and conscientious and lives to serve the public. People in the office look forward to his visits because he always arrives with a smile. He enjoys a good laugh but don’t let it fool you. I get the impression you could trust him with your life. He just proved he’s willing to put his life on the line for others," said Colley.
According to the GoFundMe account, Sgt. Wendler is Marine Corps veteran and has worked with ISP for more than 16 years.

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